Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 February 2011
The changes in chemistry and morphology within the interphase region of an SCS6/Ti-6A1-4V metal matrix composite upon exposure to varying heat treatments have been studied. It is thought that changes such as the formation of small TiC particles at one interface, and the narrowing of a protective pyrocarbon layer at another, induce fracture to occur at different places within the interphase upon heating. Evidence for a phase change on heat treatment of a TixSiy(C) layer to the more thermodynamically stable silicide phase,Ti5 Si3, is also presented.